Priest Shoots Boy During New Year’s Eve Mass in Imo State: Owerri Archdiocese Reacts

Priest Shoots Boy During New Year’s Eve Mass in Imo State: Owerri Archdiocese Reacts.

The Catholic Archdiocese of Owerri has confirmed the tragic death of a boy who was shot and killed by a priest during a New Year’s Eve mass at St. Columbus Catholic Church in Amaimo, Imo State.

The incident occurred on January 1, 2025, when a young boy allegedly set off a “banger” (likely a type of firework) inside the church. In response, the priest, identified as Joseph Enyinnaya, reportedly drew a revolver and fired, fatally injuring the boy. Another individual was also injured in the incident.

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Archbishop Lucius Ugorji of the Owerri diocese expressed deep regret over the tragic event in a statement released on Friday. He extended his condolences to the bereaved family and prayed for the repose of the deceased and the swift recovery of the injured.

“The Catholic Archdiocese of Owerri highly regrets the shooting incident that took place on the eve of the New Year at the premises of St. Columba’s Catholic Church Amaimo, leading to the death of a young man and the wounding of another,” the statement read.

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The Imo State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of the priest and the recovery of the teenager’s body, which has been transported to Atta Ikeduru Mortuary. Spokesperson Henry Okoye stated that a thorough investigation is underway to ascertain the full details of the incident.

This tragic event has sent shockwaves through the community and raised serious concerns about the use of force in places of worship.

Please note the image used in this post is for illustration purpose only.

Priest Shoots Boy During New Year’s Eve.

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